Installing the Ceiling In a Van

Shiplap is popular as a material, as it is a predetermined size that fits together easily and looks great in photos. After having shiplap in a few of our very first vans, we were bothered by the weight of the material (which is positioned at the top of an already tall and heavy vehicle). 

In order for it to be removable down the road it also will either have screw heads showing, or will need screw covers on each screw. Vans also flex and shift as you're driving, especially on gravel or forest service roads. This flexing can cause your ceiling boards (or wall panels) to push against one another, causing squeaking and creaking as you drive.

These ceilings are made up of wood strips, either ripped by hand or purchased as a panel that can be installed on a van's ceiling. This is a popular option for aesthetics. Slatted ceilings can require tedious install, but are sometimes preferred by DIY builders for their ability to hide imperfections. 

Drawbacks of this options are the added cost from materials and the time required to install. And should your van need a new fan or upgraded electrical after the ceiling is installed, your entire ceiling will likely need to be removed. In addition, as with the shiplap, slatted wood ceilings can squeak and creak during transit.  

Some van builders and DIYers use paneling or plywood ceilings for their vans. The sheets cover large sections at a time, making install progress quick. These sheets are also lightweight, reducing top-heavy concerns for your build. 

Some cons of these ceilings, however, are that the paneling sheets have large seams that are difficult to conceal without a long trim piece. Also, they may be light, but their size makes maneuverability and install difficult. Similarly, if ceiling repairs or upgrades are needed, removal and re-installation can be hard to manage.

The ceiling panels, long, 6-inch-wide sections, are cut from 1/4" OSB. This is the thinnest and lightest material we've worked with that doesn't warp. This cuts down on weight installed on your van's top. The non-warping aspect is important because condensation will be a consideration in all vans, and utilizing non-warping materials will ensure your van holds up for the long run. 

The OSB is then covered with a durable cloth material. Utilizing this cloth eliminates the rubbing and squeaking as the van moves. It also adds an extra temperature and sound barrier – two massive considerations if you're a full time van life and may find yourself in warm or cold climates, or sleeping in the inevitable truck stop parking lot. And let's not forget the clean, soft look it gives to your ceiling.

After each piece is upholstered, the backs are all covered with a vapor barrier. This is important because of the aforementioned condensation. Fluctuating temperatures in your vehicle, combined with condensation can create mold and mildew inside your van. We take all precautions to prevent moisture build-up in our vans. 

Magnets are secured to the backside of each panel. Why magnets? First, using magnets creates a cleaner surface appearance. With no screws or fasteners, your van ceiling looks professional and clean. Second, this design has you in mind. Magnets means no tools are required for ceiling adjustments.

After a vapor barrier has been installed and magnets have been attached, the individual panels are secured to the ceiling with an air gap between the panels and the ceiling of the van, plus wool insulation. This gap acts as a natural buffer, slowing down heat transfer and also reducing the risk of condensation. Properly designed and installed air gaps contribute to energy efficiency and a more comfortable indoor environment. 

Our personally-designed ceiling system is installed and you're ready to go – now and in the future! Our ceiling technique means it's easy for you to take down your ceiling panels if needed. Decide you want to change your ceiling lights out for a disco ball? You won't need to disassemble a complicated ceiling system or worry about damaging tongue and groove boards to make the change.